The New York Times has published several intriguing articles warning about the potential dangers of alcohol. One notable piece references the U.S. Surgeon General's call for cancer warnings on alcoholic beverages, citing studies linking alcohol consumption to various malignancies, including breast cancer. A related article in The Economist comments on Margaritaville, a community being built near Hilton Head Island in South Carolina, where you can live a life that’s just like “starting college all over again” and where drinking is allowed - no longer in your parents’ - but now in your own driveway.
This raises important questions both on our societal maturity and how does this align with years of hearing that moderate alcohol use - particularly that red wine - benefits heart health? Could this narrative have inadvertently justified increased consumption, opening the door to greater harm for individuals and societies at large?
For generations, alcohol has been a beloved enemy in many homes - both cherished and destructive, often shrouded in silence. Families frequently avoid speaking of the harm caused by a loved one’s use or abuse of alcohol. Sadly, the abuse of alcohol has long been a destroyer of homes, not only in the present but extending its shadow over future generations. It is not uncommon for the psychological struggles of children raised by an alcoholic parent to burden their own children, perpetuating a cycle of emotional baggage.
As Christians, how should we view alcohol?
While the Bible does not explicitly forbid its use, it provides several stern warnings that merit our reflection:
Alcohol clouds judgment, especially for those in authority. Scripture cautions against its use by those entrusted with responsibility, including leaders and those in ministry, lest it impair their judgement: "It is not for kings to drink wine, nor for princes intoxicating drink; lest they drink and forget the law, and pervert the justice of all the afflicted.” Proverbs 31:4–5
Abusing alcohol is unwise as the Bible speaks plainly to those who are led astray by alcohol.
"Wine is a mocker, strong drink is a brawler, and whoever is led astray by it is not wise." Proverbs 20:1
Alcohol leads to poverty; excessive drinking often results in broken homes, fractured relationships, and financial challenges. Both the alcoholic and their family - whether a single mother or unmarried individual - often suffers economically. "Do not mix with winebibbers, or with gluttonous eaters of meat; for the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty, and drowsiness will clothe a man with rags." Proverbs 23:20–21
So if you want to be someone who's known for a lack of judgment, loads up their grandchildren with emotional baggage, becomes known as a fool, and increases their chances of cancer - then go ahead and have just one more! Or as we step into 2025, let us take these biblical principles to heart, examining our own use of alcohol with honesty and prayer. For some, this may mean cutting back significantly; for others, it could mean embracing total abstinence.
Let us also pray earnestly for those struggling with alcohol dependency - whether in our families, extended circles, or our workplaces. May they find the strength to overcome this beloved enemy and experience healing, restoration, and the grace of God.
I've known Shane for five plus years in regard him as a friend and a stellar individual his potential for success in this new endeavor I see as very high I've observed Shane lived through several challenging experiences and is fortitude and resilience was strengthened during those times he used those times to learn from the experience as well as to drill into academic reading that I had the opportunity to send to him on the front of Theology and psychology Shane's soft-spoken humility is evidence of a teachable spirit and his accomplishments as an attorney evidence of his academic diligence I wish him all the best in this new endeavor and look forward to hearing of his successes on this front
I have had the pleasure of knowing Shane for over five years and regard him as both a friend and an exceptional individual. His potential for success in this new endeavour is, in my view, exceedingly high.
I have witnessed Shane navigate challenging circumstances in life with remarkable fortitude and resilience - qualities that were only strengthened through those experiences. Rather than being deterred, he used those challenges as opportunities for growth - both personally and intellectually. During that time, I was privileged to share academic resources with him on theology and psychology, which he embraced with genuine curiosity and commitment to learning.
Shane’s soft-spoken humility is a testament to his teachable spirit, while his accomplishments as an attorney reflect his academic diligence and professional excellence.
I extend my wholehearted best wishes for Shane in this new chapter and look forward to hearing about the successes he will undoubtedly achieve. His character, intellect, and perseverance will no doubt serve him well as he moves from success to success in this next chapter of life.
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